Brad Gushue at a Crossroads: Chasing One Last Dream—or Letting Go
As the curling world looks toward the 2026 Winter Olympics, Brad Gushue finds himself in unfamiliar territory—not on the ice, but at a personal crossroads. The 43-year-old skip, a two-time Olympic medalist and one of Canada’s most decorated curlers, isn’t making any firm commitments about his future in the sport. But he isn’t saying goodbye either.
“I’m not sure what happens after 2026,” Gushue admits. “If I keep going, it’ll have to be with the full commitment—four years, all in. Nothing less.”
That mindset has defined his career. From his breakthrough Olympic gold in 2006 to the bronze in Beijing sixteen years later, Gushue’s legacy has been shaped by his relentless drive and sharp strategic mind. But after decades of competition and countless weekends on the road, the toll—physically and emotionally—is becoming harder to ignore.
His recent stint in Toronto offered a glimpse into what life beyond curling might look like. “There’s something about being in a big city that shifts your perspective,” he says. “You start thinking more about balance, about what else life can be.”
Still, the fire hasn’t gone out. The chance to represent Canada once more remains a powerful motivator. But Gushue is clear: if he goes for it, he’ll go all the way. “It’s not fair to my teammates—or myself—to do this halfway.”
Whether the next chapter sees him chasing one last Olympic dream or stepping into a new role outside the rings, one thing is certain: Brad Gushue is approaching this decision with the same thoughtfulness that made him a champion. And whatever he chooses, it’ll be with purpose.
